Home » YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CANCUN MEXICO

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CANCUN MEXICO

Xcaret Park, Cancun, Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

 

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page”. Saint Augustine


Cancun is definitely Mexico’s showcase resort. Built in an area that was named by Mayan people, long ago, for the large number of snakes in the area, Cancun has been carefully groomed into one of the most polished resorts anywhere. Long gone are the snakes and most of the mosquitoes that might have enjoyed the numerous lagoons. Few resorts in the world have the infrastructure and amenities that were built into Cancun from the beginning. Everything just seems to flow together effortlessly in Cancun.

Composed of 2 distinct areas: 1) the more traditional downtown area, El Centro, and 2) the Zona Hotelera, a long, beachfront strip of high-rise hotels, nightclubs, shops and restaurants.

Cancun offers a plethora of activities so much so that it is impossible to do everything in one vacation, hence this year being my 6th trip! What I love about Cancun is that it offers so much variety to explore and experience, world class resorts and dining, surrounded by wide white sandy beaches and the aqua blue Caribbean Sea, outstanding and often outrageous nightlife, tons of excursions to explore the culture and historical aspect of Mexico, and lets not forget the exquisite shopping.

Adventures and theme parks

Selvatica

 A 12-circuit line coasting between trees in the heights of the jungle enjoying the unprecedented sightseeing between lines followed by ATVs on a blazing polaris and Cenote for a refreshing cleanse. 

Selvatica experience, Cancun, Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel
Selvatica experience, Cancun, Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

Parasailing Experience

 It was very much an impulse decision especially with my fear of heights but we enormously enjoyed the parasail over the gorgeous Mexican Caribbean, admiring the awe-inspiring natural landscapes and luxurious resorts. 

Xcaret Park, Cancun, Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

Xcaret Park

We love visiting theme parks every time we go back to Mexico and there are so many to choose from, Hel Ha, Xcaret, Xplor just to name a few. Xcaret is one of our favourites, located in the heart of the Riviera Maya, and features more than 40 attractions and activities surrounded by a lush jungle, underground rivers, and the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

We really enjoyed the bright colour of the Hacienda Henequenera, the traditional plantation, an equestrian performance showcasing traditional Mexican horsemanship, pink flamingos, scarlet macaws ,more than 44 species of tropical birds, the marine turtles, and the delicate blossoms housed in the Living Museum of Orchids.

If you like water activities you can enjoy a swim in the underground rivers that are part of a network of channels under the Yucatan Peninsula. Optional but I would highly recommend attending the Mexico Espectacular, a musical celebration of Mexico’s history with incredible costumes and dancing.

Xcaret Park, Cancun, Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

Xsenses

This place is fantastic and a true test of all the senses. It includes a nonsensical Mexican Town so confusing that we didn’t know whether we were actually walking up a hill or down it due to the slanted architecture designed to make you feel dizzy. Added to this the park includes a fast descent on a Slip slide, a Bird Flight zip-line, and a Natural Xpa with activities like a lazy mud river, floating in a salt river, and skin purification with potent streams of water.

Xenses, Cancun, Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel
Xenses, Cancun, Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel
Xenses, Cancun, Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

Jungle Tour

Probably one the most popular and exciting tours we have been on mainly due to the fact that you get to drive your own two-person speed boat through the green mangrove channels along the breathtaking Nichupté Lagoon.

The tour also include an unforgettable snorkeling experience while admiring the unbelievable undersea life at the beautiful “Punta Nizuc,” part of the world’s second-largest coral reef.

Jungle Tour, Aqua World Elegant Duchess Travel

Nightlife

Xoximilco

This is a perfect way to live the joy of the Mexican culture, customs and traditions through music, dance, games and food on board colorful Mexican Gondolas across unique scenery from Mexico. Guys expect lots of tequila shots! 

Cancun Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel Review

Clubbing

Cancun is where the fiesta never stops and it’s in one of the world’s most vibrant nightlife centres.

With skip-the-line access, a VIP tables, open bar privileges, conga lines and endless shows what more would you want. Coco Bongo, Mandala, Palazzo, the City are only few of many choices available at the Cancun’s nightlife. 

Cancun Mexico

Congo Bar

The reason I listed this place separate is because this is my number 1 choice on a night out in Cancun. This small open-air bar is smack in the middle of all the action in Cancun’s Party Center and is always full of fun! Since the bar is open on two sides, you can see how wild & crazy the party is before you even enter. There isn’t really a dance floor to speak of, but that doesn’t stop everyone from dancing. Go-go dancers, shot girls and every once in awhile, a strong burst of confetti.

The best part, balloons!! I never miss out on the conga line while frantically waving the balloon!

Captain Hook

The sound of the cannons, contests, dancing, full pirate show and entertainment. To add to the already high levels of excitement the Captain discovers that the enemy cannons are ready and fired. Pirates armed with swords and pistols jump from the masts landing on the deck, and a sword fight ensues between our crew and the other Pirates. What else would you need? 

Captain Cook Cancun Mexico

Romance

Columbus Lobster Dinner

Lobster Dinner while watching a sunset is such a romantic way to bring a sparkle of romance to any relationship. It’s a truly special evening surrounded by breathtaking views, live saxophone music, fine wine and a delicious surf ´n turf or lobster dinner.

Dining out

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

One of our favourite places to wine and dine outside of the hotel. This Cancun steak house delivers superior service and an unforgettable dining experience.

We went there to celebrate my birthday and I have to say that this was a magical evening with the flawless service, 500° steak sizzling plates and an award-winning wine list.

La Parilla

Another must visit place every time we go back to Cancun. Favorite Mexican food restaurant for the Cancun locals since 1975, perfect choice to enjoy a great Mexican experience!

La Isla Shopping Village Cancun Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

Shopping

Vinoteka

Perfect place to restock your wine cellar. I’m a huge fan of Beringer wines, especially the merlot that is impossible to find in the UK. Therefore every time I travel abroad I’m always on the look out for some wine shops. I came across Beringer for the first time during my trip to Antigua back in 2013. What at first seemed to be just another house wine served in an all-inclusive resort turned out to be one of the best wines I have ever had the pleasure to taste and it remains my favourite to this day. I actually wrote a post about Beringer and if you are interested in exploring more just click here.

Cancun Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel Vinoteka

La Isla Shopping Village

La Isla Cancun Shopping Village is the place to visit if you are looking to get some authentic Mexican pieces, just to refill your wardrobe, stock up on designer treats, or have a nice meal with a pina colada overlooking the magnificent Nichupte lagoon.

LA Parrilla Cancun Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

Winner of the ICSC award, it is the most visited commercial center of the hotel zone of Cancun.

La Isla Shopping Village Cancun Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

Cancun sightseeing

Cancun is full of historically important monuments and is perhaps the best place to witness history unfold. The wonderful monuments and the rich history attached with the destination make Cancun one of Top Historical Destinations in the world. Whenever you are planning to visit a historical monument in Cancun or a place of historical significance, it is always good to know a little information about the place like its opening and closing times, the ideal duration of a visit, and whether you’ll need tour guide to visit the historical monuments of Cancun. And remember, the weather is hot! You will need sunscreen, a bottle of water and a pair of sunglasses wherever you go. Obviously don’t forget to take a camera with you!

Coba

On these quiet and peaceful grounds it´s hard to imagine that Cobá may have once had the largest population of all the ancient Mayan cities. Only a small fraction of the many structures have been excavated and this, together with the remote jungle setting, add to the feeling of being an early discoverer.

One of the best inventions is that you can rent a bike or hire a rickshaw (as I did) to travel among the knobby paths and thick forest that link the groupings of ancient pyramids and historic sites to one another. Trust me cycling in hot weather in the jungle it’s probably not the best idea unless your aim is to sweat buckets!

Coba

Chichén Itzá 

The Chichen Itza is an ancient city that lies in the Yucatean Penninsula. This Place is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The gorgeous, 24 meter tall pyramid called El Castillo is a wonderful example of Mayan Architecture. It is simply amazing to see what the Mayans could do with simple tools and stone. 

Isla Mujeres

Literally translated “the island of women”, the Isla Mujeres is actually named after several statues of the goddess Ixchel found here. What makes this island important to visit is that it is a part of the Mayan history of Mexico. The island of Isla Mujeres is located close to one of many coral reefs such as the one located in Garrafon Park, which is an area popular for its snorkeling and scuba diving. The Cancun Underwater Museum, created by English sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, is located off the western coast of Isla Mujeres. Isla Mujeres is also home to a population of sea turtles.

 I have visited the Isla Mujeres three times now. The first time I went there on a sunset cruise, followed by a buffet dinner and a tropical carnival show with the entertainment team performing a colorful show to the rhythm of Rumba, Salsa, Merengue and African bits. My second day trip was on a catamaran, combined with a shopping excursion downtown (where you can rent a golf cart which is not a bad idea taking into account the boiling temperatures).  The third trip was part of my birthday celebrations, cruising on a catamaran, followed by a golf cart trip round the island and some delicious pina coladas afterwards.

Isla Mujeres Cancun Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

If you are brave enough you can have a ‘cuddle’ with a shark. I have to admit that when I went to that shark tank it was really exciting, and even though the shark was kinda smallish and friendly (or rather indifferent) the adrenaline was definitely pumping.

Isla Mujeres Cancun Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

Isla Mujeres Cancun Mexico Elegant Duchess Travel

Tulum

Tulum was one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya and was in full glory between the 13th and 15th centuries. However, this city was subsequently abandoned after it became infested with Old World diseases brought by Spanish settlers. Today it is one of the most visited sites in Mexico and admittedly I haven’t made my way there yet however, but it’s on my list of places to visit see during my next visit.

Tulum Mexico
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127 Comments

  1. July 17, 2018 / 8:12 am

    I feel love to read your blog. Soon I will visit there. Love for sharing.

  2. Amanda
    July 14, 2018 / 2:47 am

    Thank you for sharing…ill be visitng next month and wondered what are the options for booking excursions?

  3. Elegant Duchess
    July 11, 2018 / 8:02 pm

    Definietely Meredith! It’s such a beautiful place 💞💖😘

  4. nobasisinreality
    July 11, 2018 / 5:34 pm

    What a fun place to visit! I’ve only been to Cancun one time, and it was just a short 4 hour stop – I’ll have to make a point to go back soon!

    xx,
    Meredith
    LATEST POST | INSTAGRAM

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 9, 2018 / 9:48 pm

      Thanks babe. Kisses 😘💞💖

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 9, 2018 / 9:50 pm

      Thanks babe. Have a fantastic weekend 😘💞💖

  5. July 4, 2018 / 2:40 pm

    Gosh what an amazing trip and place.
    This must be paradise. You experienced and did soooo much.
    Thank you for sharing these lovely impressions with us. Cancun is on my travel bucket list for sooo long.

    take a look at my Blog and my Instgram

  6. Lorna
    July 4, 2018 / 12:35 pm

    Oh my goodness! That place looks amazing!!!!! You did so many amazing things too, such a wonderful holiday! Envy right now!

    Raindrops of Sapphire

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 9, 2018 / 9:44 pm

      Thanks beautiful. Have a fabulous week 😘💞💖

  7. July 4, 2018 / 11:07 am

    Hi Duchess
    well I am impressed, shocked with you, you a duchess in these wild adventures by the Caribbean sea, wowww. You even look like Prince Harry. I never imagined you doing these radical sports !!!
    In fact Cancun is a dream place, visually, in food and drink as I realized.
    You have fantastic photos with the Mexican hat, under water. I loved it!!!

    Big kiss from Portugal

    marisasclosetblog.com

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 9, 2018 / 9:38 pm

      Thanks Marisa! I know I’m a quite Adventures person (however I prefer to be all about elegance 😆). Kisses 💖💞😘

  8. July 4, 2018 / 6:18 am

    This looks so much fun! Would love to try these activities, especially the helmet diving and zipline!

    Jessica | notjessfashion.com

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 9, 2018 / 9:40 pm

      Thanks Jessica! The underwater experience was fantastic ! 💖💞💖

  9. July 4, 2018 / 12:48 am

    So many wonderful memories!! As the billboard says, this place certainly does put Vegas to shame! And all the adventure sports, parasailing…romantic dining, clubbing! Ahh you make me wish I could fly to Cancun right now! Btw you looked stunning in every picture, especially in that red gown!
    I am back after a month long hiatus, hope you’ve been well! Missed reading your posts!
    xx
    Ankita | Real Girl Talks
    http://realgirltalks.com/

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 9, 2018 / 9:28 pm

      Thank you Ankita! I’m so glad you liked the post 💖💞😘

  10. Gabrielle
    July 3, 2018 / 11:23 pm

    Oh my goshhhh this looks beyond incredible! The adventure activities look like so much fun and you look so lovely in that leopard print romper babe!

    aglassofice.com x

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 9, 2018 / 9:19 pm

      Thank you beautiful. Kisses 💖💞😘

  11. July 3, 2018 / 11:14 pm

    Amazing guide! Such beauty and so much fun 😀

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 9, 2018 / 9:20 pm

      Thanks babe. Kisses 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 8:23 pm

      Thanks babe. Have a fab weekend 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 8:21 pm

      Ha I’m not surprised Federica! Every time I read my post I want to go back. Have a fab weekend 💖💞😘

  12. jane
    July 3, 2018 / 4:58 am

    This looks a lot of fun!
    I love the adventures you’ve been to.
    I would love to visit it too

    Much Love,
    Jane | The Bandwagon Chic

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 8:18 pm

      Thanks Jane. I really enjoyed all the activities 💖💞😘

  13. innapishtoy
    July 3, 2018 / 1:01 am

    Looks like you had a really fun trip! I would love to visit the Chichén Itzá

    http://innapishtoy.com

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 7:00 pm

      you would enjoy all the historical sites. there is so much to see in Cancun xx

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 6:54 pm

      you should babe. it’s such a beautiful place to visit. have a fantastic weekend xx

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 6:53 pm

      thanks Paola. have a fab weekend xx

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 6:33 pm

      Thanks Didier 😀 have a fantastic weekend 😘💖💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 6:31 pm

      Thanks babe! Have a fab weekend 😘💖💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 6:16 pm

      Thanks babe! Have a lovely weekend 😘💖💞

  14. July 2, 2018 / 5:48 pm

    Looks like you had an amazing time! I definitely have to visit Cancun one day.

    ANOUK

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 6:15 pm

      I do recommend babe! Fantastic place with so much to do and see. Have a fab weekend 😘💖😀

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 6:06 pm

      Thank you Vanessa 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 5:58 pm

      Thank you Samantha! Have a fab weekend 😘💖💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 5:55 pm

      Thanks babe! Have a fab weekend 😘💖💞

  15. Rach DiMare
    July 2, 2018 / 1:00 pm

    Thank you for this guide! It looks like there so many things to do there and of course, it looks like paradise there!

    http://www.rdsobsessions.com

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 5:35 pm

      It is a paradise babe! I can’t wait to go back 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 5:33 pm

      Thanks babe! Have a fabulous weekend 😘💖😍

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 5:22 pm

      Thanks babe. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Have a fab weekend 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 5:21 pm

      Thanks Ann. Have a fab weekend 😘💖😀

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 11, 2018 / 7:51 pm

      Thanks Ivana! Kisses 😘💞😘

  16. July 2, 2018 / 7:47 am

    such a cool place- so many stunning pictures

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 4:41 pm

      Thanks babe. Have a fab weekend 😘💖💞

  17. busyandfab
    July 2, 2018 / 5:20 am

    So much fun and captivating photographs! Looks like you had a wonderful time. I like your red outfit in the video, so lovely!

    http://www.busyandfab.com

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 4:33 pm

      Thank you beautiful! Have a fab weekend 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 4:28 pm

      It was so much fun babe! I can’t wait to go back. Have a fantastic weekend 😘💖💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 3:46 pm

      I’m not surprised. It’s such a fun place. Have a fabulous weekend 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 3:42 pm

      Thanks babe. Have a great weekend 💞💖😘

  18. Simone
    July 1, 2018 / 8:31 am

    Very amazing travel guide darling! Those adventures look like so much fun and that beach is so dreamy. White sand and turquoise sea, what else can you ask for? Very beautiful!

    xx Simone
    Little Glittery Box

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 2:43 pm

      Thank you Simone, it was a dreamy holiday. Can’t wait to go back to Cancun 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 2:42 pm

      Thanks babe. Have a fantastic weekend 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 2:22 pm

      I do recommend Laura. It’s such a beautiful place and it offers a lot to see and do 💖💞😘

      https://www.elegantduchess.com

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 2:18 pm

      Thank you Kathrine! Have a fabulous weekend 💖💞😘

  19. June 30, 2018 / 9:31 pm

    Looks like there are a lot of fun activities to do in Cancun!! Love your travel guide!

    Have a lovely weekend!

    Andrea.

    Seize your Style

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 2:08 pm

      Thanks babe. Have a fantastic weekend 💖💞😘

  20. June 30, 2018 / 4:08 pm

    What a great guide you have put together!!! I always knew that Cancun is beautiful but I didn’t know it had so much to offer. It is not just the beaches and the sun, it’s the whole experience…there is so much to do there. I loved the activities you presented here. Scuba diving and exploring the sea-life is definitely something I’m into. I love the sea, the rivers, all kind of watery surfaces.

    You look fantastic in all of these outfits! love your swimwear as well!!! Fantastic locations and look.

    https://modaodaradosti.blogspot.com/

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 2:00 pm

      Thanks Ivana! I’m so glad you enjoyed the post babe. Have a fabulous weekend 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 1:48 pm

      Thank you Babita. Have a fantastic weekend 💞💖😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 1:47 pm

      Thanks babe. Have a wonderful weekend 😘💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 1:01 pm

      Thanks babe. I’m so glad you liked the post. Have a lovely weekend 💖💞😘

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 12:58 pm

      We had a fantastic holiday! I can’t wait to go back . Have a fantastic weekend 💞💖😘

  21. June 29, 2018 / 1:12 pm

    I’ve been hearing for a while that Mexico is a wonderful place to visit, but it didn’t occur to me that there were quite so many interesting things to see/do in Cancun. Your photos are beautiful.

    Kathrin | Polar Bear Style

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 12:37 pm

      Thanks Kathrin. And this is just a few options, there is so much more to see and do . Have a fabulous weekend 💖💞😘

  22. June 29, 2018 / 10:55 am

    Great guide, it looks and sounds like a wonderful place!!
    Have a lovely weekend 🙂
    Rosanna x

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 12:37 pm

      Thanks Rosanna. Cancun most definitely is. There is so much to see and do. Have a fabulous weekend 😘💖💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 11:41 am

      Thank you Carmen. Glad you enjoyed it. Have a fabulous weekend 💖😘💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 11:30 am

      Thanks Daniel. Have a fab weekend 💖😘💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 7, 2018 / 11:24 am

      Cancun is fantastic. There is so much to do and see 😘💖💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 6, 2018 / 10:24 pm

      I’m so glad you liked it babe. Have a lovely weekend 💖😘💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 6, 2018 / 10:23 pm

      Thanks babe. Have a fabulous weekend 💖😘💞

  23. June 28, 2018 / 5:57 pm

    Love the quality of these photos! So beautiful!

    Mihaailo | mihaailo.blogspot.com

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 6, 2018 / 10:12 pm

      Thank you 😊 have a great weekend

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 6, 2018 / 9:59 pm

      Thank you Jennifer. Have a lovely weekend 😘💞💖

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 6, 2018 / 9:57 pm

      Thanks babe. Have a fantastic weekend 💖😘💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 5, 2018 / 10:09 pm

      Thank you Jessica! We had an amazing time! I can’t wait to go back 😘💞💖

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 5, 2018 / 10:05 pm

      Thanks Courtney 😘💖💞

  24. June 28, 2018 / 2:48 pm

    Wow! Beautiful pictures girl <3 I love Mexico and have visited some places already but never been to Cancun. Definitely on the bucket list 🙂 xx

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 5, 2018 / 9:38 pm

      Definitely worth a visit 💖😘💞

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 5, 2018 / 9:36 pm

      I know Jessi. Every time we go back there is more to see and do! 💞😘💖

  25. June 28, 2018 / 9:58 am

    Wow! Fantastic post!
    Have a nice day!
    Gil Zetbase

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 5, 2018 / 9:29 pm

      Thank you 😊!

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 5, 2018 / 9:28 pm

      Thanks babe! Glad you enjoyed the post 😘💖💞

  26. June 28, 2018 / 6:57 am

    Wow, I have always wanted to travel somewhere out of the country, but never knew quite where I wanted to go, and after reading this post, Cancun is definitely being added to my list!

    • Elegant Duchess
      July 5, 2018 / 9:23 pm

      Thanks babe! Glad you liked the post. Cancun is definietely worth a visit 💞💖😘

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